American Indian Exposition, Annual Native American festival in Anadarko, Oklahoma, US
The American Indian Exposition is an annual gathering of fifteen sponsoring tribes and representatives from around fifty additional tribes held at the Caddo County Fairgrounds each August. The week-long event provides camping facilities for participants and typical attendance reaches approximately 3,000 visitors.
The gathering originated as the All-Indian Fair in 1924 and was formally established as the American Indian Exposition in 1935 by Native American organizers. This founding gave it status as a self-directed event from its beginning.
The gathering showcases traditional dances, tribal princess ceremonies, and artisan crafts reflecting the heritage of Plains Indian nations. Visitors experience these cultural expressions directly through performances and displays throughout the event.
The fairgrounds offer ample camping space, making it easy to stay for multiple days and experience the full range of activities and performances. Plan your visit for August when the event runs, as crowds tend to be steady throughout the week.
This gathering stands as the first and only event of its scale operated entirely by Native American organizers and leaders. This independence from its founding has set it apart from other cultural events across the country.
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